Roethlisberger's thoughts on the draft

Ben Roethlisberger wasn’t happy with the Steelers’ draft

At first glance, Pittsburgh quarterback Ben Roethlisberger wasn’t happy about the way the Steelers drafted. He wanted an NFL-ready receiver to target. Instead, Pittsburgh focused on defense in the early rounds of the draft, and didn’t pick up a wideout until the fourth round.

“I got caught up in doing what I always say not to do, and that’s listen to the media,” Roethlisberger said. “(The Steelers) obviously have their agenda, the things they want, and they got two guys that they felt can help this team.”

The Steelers selected running back Dri Archer in the third round, and receiver Martavis Bryant in the fourth.

It’s dicey for a player to speak out about who his team should draft or sign. He risks his relationship with his team’s brass, which is really not a good idea heading into a contract year. Considering Roethlisberger, 32, wants to get another contract and finish his career in Pittsburgh, waking up from his unhappiness is smart.

He’s also missing the forest for the trees. The Steelers have fallen into mediocrity over the past two seasons, and both the offense and defense are to blame.

The Steelers were comprehensive in the draft, picking five defensive players and four offensive players. Their strategy was to improve the whole team, not just focus on offense because that would make no sense.

No, it wasn’t just to help Roethlisberger, but to help the whole team. Give them a shot, Ben.